Ankle fusion, also known as ankle arthrodesis, is a type of surgery performed by Forrest City Medical Center’s podiatrist. If you have degenerative arthritis in your ankle, normally as a result of an ankle fracture, or a severe deformity of your ankle, your podiatrist may recommend ankle fusion as your next step to relieve your pain.
The purpose of this procedure is to remove the articular cartilage separating the tibia or shinbone and the talus, the small bone connecting the tibia to the heel bone, to make the two bones grow together. Cuts are made in both areas so that the foot is at right angle to the lower leg. Then the bones are held together with the use of metal plates and screws inserted under the skin while the body fuses these bones together. Ankle fusion can be done arthroscopically with minimal incisions and a small camera inserted into the joint.
After your surgery, your podiatrist will wrap your ankle in a padded plaster cast. The cast will be replaced after two weeks with a short-leg cast. No weight should be placed on your foot until your podiatrist is sure the bones are fusing, usually an eight to twelve week period. Forrest City Medical Center podiatrists will schedule frequent X-rays to determine if the bones are fusing and once confirmed, an ankle brace will replace the cast.
Your surgery team will discuss with you all follow up details. While you will not be able to run normally after ankle fusion surgery, you will be able to walk with a natural gait following physical therapy and shoe modifications.
These members of the medical staff may be able to help:
Lynette Meece, DPM, AACFAS
Podiatrist
904 Holiday Drive, Suite 400
Forrest City, AR 72335
611 Julia Avenue
Wynne, AR 72396
Dr. Meece is a member of the medical staff at Forrest City Medical Center. She is Board Certified and has obtained hands-on training in forefoot, rearfoot, and ankle reconstructive surgery. Trained in all aspects of podiatric medicine and surgery, her special interests include diabetic limb salvage and wound care.